Dutch police, municipalities warn residents to protect homes before leaving for vacation

As the summer vacation season approaches, police and municipalities in Utrecht are warning residents that empty homes can attract burglars, RTV Utrecht reports. Vacationers are advised to make it look like the homes are occupied.

Utrecht is urging residents to stay alert during the summer. The municipality is sending postcards to residents in neighborhoods where burglars often strike, UStad reported. Residents are advised to close and lock all windows and doors and tell neighbors they will be away.

“Act as if you are home. Whether you are away for a few hours or a few weeks, leave coffee cups out and create the impression that someone is home by using automatic lighting,” the municipality said.

Police in Utrecht Centrum also advised residents to put valuables away and to be cautious about sharing vacation plans on social media.

De Bilt also warns residents not to leave loose paving stones or bricks around their homes because burglars could use them to smash windows. “Store ladders and do not leave materials that burglars could use to climb within sight,” the municipality added.

Bunschoten is also warning about the risks of leaving a home without supervision. “An empty home can unfortunately be attractive to burglars,” it told residents. The municipality recommends asking a neighbor to collect the mail, water plants, and occasionally open and close the curtains to make the home appear occupied.

“Together, we keep Bunschoten safe,” the municipality said. Residents who see anything suspicious are advised to call police. “With good preparation and by looking out for one another, together we reduce the risk of home burglaries during the vacation period.”